FAMILIES will once again be able to visit Slough’s cemetery after the council decided to reopen it – but new guidelines have been issued for visitors.

The Slough Cemetery and Crematorium (SCC), Stoke Road, is now open for residents to visit their deceased loved ones’ gravestones after Slough Borough Council decided to reverse its decision to close it amid the coronavirus lockdown.

The move comes after the Local Government Secretary Robert Jenrick announced three days ago parks and cemeteries must remain open.

SCC was shut to the public – other than those attending crematorium services or burials – in March after the government announced all crematorium grounds should close with immediate effect.

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However, the council has announced some regulations to ensure everyone’s safety.

Visitors to the cemetery are now required to:

  • enter the site through the gates off Lismore Park, and not through the main gates to the crematorium off Stoke Road
  • park in the layby areas off the paths through the cemetery and not in the crematorium car park
  • maintain social distancing at all times – including from council staff maintaining the grounds
  • not take part in any gatherings around graves or grave sites – only people from the same household should visit at the same time
  • only visit during published cemetery opening hours
  • not assist in any works in the grounds including interment
  • be respectful of any services taking place

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The authority also announced it has taken precautions for people wanting to visit their deceased family members, without straying into the grounds of the crematorium which shares the same site.

The office and book of remembrance chapel remain closed.

Josie Wragg, chief executive, said: “Our staff were distraught when they had to close the cemetery, knowing bereaved families would like to visit and pay their respects.

“Please be reassured, while the cemetery has been closed to the public, we have continued to care for those interred at the Slough cemetery as if they were our own family.

“Please feel free to visit your departed loved ones once again – but please, to ensure your safety and ours, follow the new guidelines.”